Senegal kicks off Youth Games, Africa’s first ever Olympics

The 2026 Youth Olympic Games, Africa’s inaugural Olympics, commenced in Dakar, Senegal on October 31st, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the continent. The event, hosted in the Senegalese capital, gathered approximately 2,665 young athletes, aged 14 to 17, from around the globe. An impressive array of 25 sports and 153 medal events were on offer.

International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry, a former Zimbabwean swimmer, expressed optimism regarding the Games. She hoped the participants from diverse backgrounds would leave with a newfound positive perspective on Africa. The Games saw Russian athletes returning to the Olympics for the first time since the country’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, under their own flag and colors.

The Games will take place in three locations – Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly. Dakar itself will host eight venues across three locations. A total of 136 Senegalese athletes will compete, with the support of around 6,000 volunteers.

Senegal, known for its rich sports culture, including football, traditional wrestling and surfing, is set to host the Games. The capital city’s excitement, however, has not been as pronounced as anticipated, with many Senegalese more preoccupied with economic issues.

The Games also mark the return of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), after its suspension was lifted in July. There will be 13 Russian athletes and 10 coaches participating. However, the IOC left it to each sport’s governing body to decide on the participation of these athletes.

In addition, the Dakar Games will welcome a refugee Olympic team. The IOC sees the event as a milestone for the continent, showcasing Africa’s growing role in the Olympics and Senegal’s cultural richness. South Africa is also in contention for hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics.